Historic Ford Piquette Avenue Plant – Model T Birthplace

I experienced the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant as a guest of the Ford Motor Company; however, all opinions are my own. #FORDNAIAS

From the moment you arrive at the historic Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, the birthplace of the Model T, you can feel the presence of those who came before. The location is just a few blocks off of I-94 and I-75, but a world away. It was added to the U.S. Nationa Register of Historic Places in 2002 and declared a U.S. National Historic Landmark in 2006. Both much-deserved recognition.

The Piquette Avenue Plant was built in 1904 as the second home of the Ford Motor Company and the first plant built specifically to create the Model T. It went on to also produce other models. Ford sold the building in 1911 to Studebaker, who used the building until 1933. It was owned by several other businesses until it was purchased by the Model T Automotive Heritage Complex in 2000. It’s now a historic site that’s open to the public and run by some amazingly dedicated volunteers.

I had the pleasure of meeting a few of them during my time with Ford in 2015 during the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). I was impressed with their love for not only the building but also the vehicles they are stewards of. Their wealth of information about how these vehicles were used in daily life as well as the history of the plant is remarkable. If you get the chance to visit, and I suggest you do, spend some time chatting with the volunteers. They’re happy to share their knowledge and love sharing their passion for these vintage vehicles.

The Piquette Avenue Plant provides a tour back in history to learn about the innovations that were made that created the popular Ford Model T. The three-story building is built in the New England-style, which boasts the original metal fire doors and wood plank floors. The worn treads have been honed smooth by work boots and equipment, and light shines through the cracks from the floors below. The original windows are immense and beautiful and at night, they are illuminated by the hanging light fixtures that create the most incredible glow.

Ford Piquette Avenue Plant Events

This stunning historic location is available for special events. It’s the perfect place for a wedding! The rustic feel and antique cars are an excellent backdrop for most any event. Guest will enjoy experiencing the history of the autos and the splendor of the building with the large windows, open beams, and original wood floor.

About The Author

A mom and wife, Connie blogs about entertainment, travel, living green, products, technology, DIY home remodeling and decor, and more. She's a vegetarian and animal lover and lives in the Pacific Northwest near Seattle, WA.
Find out more about Connie and all the bloggers here at Baby to Boomer Lifestyle on our About Us page.

I am a big fan of the Model T (the t-bucket). My father when he was alive belonged to a hot rod club and had 2 of them! They were awesome, fun to go on rod runs with him, this brings back memories, thanks!

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